DUBLIN, Ohio, Dec. 10, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The following statement can be attributed to George Barrett,

Cardinal Health Chairman and CEO:

"This is a critical time for our nation. While last week's jobs data showed some encouraging signs, it is clear that consumer confidence remains fragile and the looming 'fiscal cliff' poses a serious threat to our economic recovery. We strongly believe that our leaders in Washington must come together to resolve this issue. We recognize that passions are strong and that perspectives vary, but it seems clear that getting our nation back on solid fiscal footing will require compromise on all sides. We believe that any agreement should include increased revenues and serious steps to slow our spending on entitlements – necessary to ensure that our national safety net programs are sustainable for future generations. Now is the time to act. We urge our leaders to rise above political differences and act with speed."